Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. People sometimes refer to it as spinal meningitis. Meningitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Knowing whether meningitis is caused by a virus or bacterium is important because the severity of illness and the treatment differ depending on the cause. Viral meningitis is generally less severe and clears up without specific treatment. But bacterial meningitis can be quite severe and may result in brain damage, hearing loss, or learning disabilities.
Luckily, the vaccine immunizes against the bacterial form of the disease, and there are two brand names: Menactra and Menomune. Children as young age 11 can receive it, and it's recommended for high-school age kids. If your child is entering college, it is highly recommended for them to receive a meningitis vaccine before entering.
There have been some cases of serious side effects. In 2005, 5 people contracted the nerve disorder Guillain-Barré after receiving a meningitis vaccine. More frequent side effects include headache, weakness, redness and pain at the injection site, and fever.
You shouldn't get the meningitis vaccine? Those with suppressed immune systems or who have had previous strongly adverse reactions should not receive the vaccine.
Hi,
ReplyDeleteNicknamed, "The Iron Man", Mike LaForgia; not only battled and survived
meningitis within six months; he then went on to run (with prosthetic) to
raise awareness. It is often, common place to celebrate the survivor (as
well as it should be), but forget the ones who made it possible.
Organizations, such as yourself, who have conducted extensive research and
established events to raise awareness, are the catalyst for survivors such
as, Mike LaForgia. Disease.com (a non-profit, website dedicated to the
preventions and treatments for disease), would like to join your fight
against Meningitis. Using our disease profiles, we have worked with
several elite organizations to fight the cure for disease. If you could,
please list us as a resource or host our social book mark button, it would
be much appreciated. Together, let's give the meningitis world many more
iron men and women.
If you need more information please email me back with subject line as
your URL.